Shepway youth to get up close with the Band of the Grenadier Guards

Young people are being given the chance to get involved when one of the best military bands in the world visits Shepway. The Band of the Grenadier Guards is playing at the Leas Cliff Hall in August, and as well as presenting a varied and entertaining programme of music, the 45-strong band is inviting local young people to listen to its rehearsals, gain an insight into how the concert is put together and to talk to band members.

The band will also be marching through Hythe earlier in the day and will give a 15-minute concert outside the town hall.

Cllr Carole Waters, Cabinet Member for Sport and Culture, said it was important that the council's free use days at the Leas Cliff Hall has a wide community benefit.

"We spoke to the Band of the Grenadier Guards and they were delighted to be involved in not only the march through Hythe but the opportunity to meet keen local youngsters who might have their sights on a musical career. I am sure the chance to watch the band rehearse and being able to ask questions will be a fantastic experience."

Although the band visit is not until 16 August, Amanda Oates, the council's Arts Development Officer, needs to hear as soon as possible from young people who might be interested in taking up the free offer of hearing the rehearsals.

"The rehearsals will start at around 4.00pm and will continue until 6.00pm when the band members will need to change into their uniforms ready for their performance. Young people can leave then or stay for the concert if they've brought tickets."

Any young person who would like to hear the rehearsals should contact Janie Beaumont on 01303 853393 and ask for an application form.

Performances by the band raise much-needed funding to help pay for welfare support for those Grenadiers who have been severely wounded in military operations and for the families of those killed or injured in action.